Kai woke up in Nikolaus' arms.
He savored the warmth and comfort of being in a true bed once more, of being held by his lover.
Lover. The word warmed him, even if he did not trust the truth of it yet.
They had fallen asleep swiftly, too tired to do more than hold each other close. Such a thing was almost better than s*x to Kai, who had been so touch deprived. To be held was a wonder of its own.
Nikolaus stirred, groaning, and then growling under his breath, making Kai grin in response.
The general blinked sleepily at Kai, then smiled, drawing him down for a long, gentle kiss.
A knock at the door drew them apart, and Nikolaus swore under his breath, making Kai chuckle.
“My lord? You asked me to wake you. To give you time to get to the meeting.” The man’s voice held worry.
“My thanks
